Ask a Doctor
Q: How can I avoid fall allergy symptoms?
A: If you sneeze, have a runny nose or watery, irritated eyes, then you may have noticed that the ragweed season began in August and extends through the fall. Ragweed is a hardy plant that can be found almost anywhere, but often turns up in areas of construction, along roads or around parking lots. There are other weeds that pollinate during the fall months, and any of these weeds may cause symptoms of hay fever (or allergic rhinitis) in people who are allergic. Also if you have asthma, you may find that your asthma is more difficult to control during this period.
After a diagnosis is made by your allergist, he will discuss appropriate avoidance techniques. Complete avoidance is nearly impossible, though there are some simple steps that can significantly reduce your exposure and symptoms.
› Keep windows closed during the ragweed season to prevent pollen from entering your house.
› Use your air conditioner, with an appropriate filter, to help clean the air.
› Minimize outdoor activity between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., as pollen tends to peak during the middle of the day.
› If you do spend time outdoors, shower soon after to remove the pollen that has adhered to your clothes and hair.
› Avoid hanging clothes or bed linens outside to dry, as this brings pollen indoors in significant amounts.
If needed, medications including antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, leukotriene receptor antagonists or decongestants may be considered. Allergy shots may be recommended to not only reduce your symptoms but reduce the amount of medicines you will need to control them.
— Dr. Curt Chaffin, Allergy & Asthma Group of Galen; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society